Father Pius Affas and Father Mzen Ishoa Photos from Compass Direct

Two Christian priests, Father Pius Affas (60) and Father Mzen Ishoa (35), were kidnapped by unidentified men in Mosul on the afternoon of October 13. Late that afternoon, the kidnappers spoke with Archbishop Basile George Casmoussa and demanded a ransom of $1 million dollars for their release. Bishop Carsmoussa, however, told them that it was not possible to raise these funds. Negotiations are reportedly still underway to secure the priests' freedom. The exact motive for the kidnapping has yet to be determined but it is suspected to be connected to an Islamic group called "Jihad and Tawhid." This group sent letters to Father Addas' church approximately two months ago that threatened to attack the church if the congregation did not flee the area.

Pray that these priests will be released. Pray that they will keep their eyes on Jesus, persevere in their faith, and not grow weary or lose heart (Hebrews 10:32-39; 12:1-3). Pray that their loved ones will rely on God in this uncertain time. Pray that the kidnapping of priests in Iraq will cease.

For more information on the persecution of Christians in Iraq, go to the Iraq Country Report.